Students for Teachers, the American Legion and grocery store E.W. Thomas presented the award, which includes a hometown heroes banquet to be held on Sunday, May 12, at Lake Christian Church.
“As students in Fluvanna County schools everyday, we witness teachers who make a better future in our lives,” said Students for Teachers member Robyn Hightman. “Thank you for inspiring us, no matter how challenging the year and how limited the resources.”
Students for Teachers made quilted “Fluco” tote bags filled with school supplies to give to each building level teacher of the year, which included: Skyler Fox, first grade teacher at Columbia Elementary; Cynthia Peck, second grade teacher at Cunningham Elementary School; Elva Key, school secretary at Central Elementary School; Jennifer Flood, third grade teacher at Carysbrook Elementary School; and Rebecca Smith, foreign languages teacher at Fluvanna Middle School. E.W. Thomas also gave each honoree a plant and flowers.
The District Level Teacher of the Year is chosen by a group of teachers and administrators from throughout the district.
“It’s a way to say, ‘you do something that inspires others to be the best that they can be for their children,’” said Superintendent of Fluvanna County Schools, Gena Keller. “It’s about who is a leader among their peers, who asks tough questions, and who challenges themselves.”
Hoffman has never had a student fail her geometry class, and Fluvanna high school’s results on state academic achievement tests prove it.
“Fluvanna High School ranked third in the state in geometry last year, thanks to this woman,” said Principal James Barlow. “She’s excellent. I hope she stays for a long, long time.”
Keller is also impressed with Hoffman’s work as a teacher and leader of the math department at Fluvanna County High School.
“That math department at the high school rocks! That’s a professional term that means, ‘really good.’ This lady leads that,” said Keller. “She has a tough but fair attitude with her students.”
Hoffman will have a chance to compete at the state level for Virginia’s teacher of the year.
